Kevin Eubanks Leaving 'Tonight Show' in Six Weeks

After 18 years as Jay Leno's music director, Kevin Eubanks has confirmed he will be leaving 'The Tonight Show' on May 28. After doing his "Headlines" segment, Leno called Eubanks to the stage and said, "We have one more headline to get to and it involves our very own Kevin Eubanks."

"After 18 years, I just need a change of pace and see what else is going on," Eubanks said. Back in February, NBC confirmed that Eubanks was ready leave.

"But it's a really difficult decision because this has become my second home, as it has been for the band, and I love the audience and the American people really love the show and it's been a wonderful experience to be here," he added.

"It has been a pleasure," Leno said. "You've been a great friend and really supportive. When those jokes die, I gotta look to you man."

"I thought about this and it wasn't that difficult," replied Eubanks. " After 18 years of playing America in to commercials, I'm gonna go somewhere where I can finish a song."

OK..... I am so sick of him sitting in that odd position. Is there some physical reason that keeps him from standing or does he just prefer to look lazy? As for his guitar playing.... you have got to be kidding me! Any lead guitar player would tell you he simply plays the slide which can be taught in about 1 hour. Bye and good luck. Hope yahave some big bucks put away.... you'll need it.

Did I read correctly. Teach slide quitar in one hour. Do you have the faintest clue of what you are talking about or just don't know anything about music. My apologies to Duane Allman and Ellmore James

Slick buddy,"Lazy," I now know why you refer to your self as Slick. Because your attitude is not at all fitting to be Slick. Slicks don't engage in demeaning statements, as you have just demonstrated by your thoughtless remarks. Remember, if you don't have anything positive to say, then say nothing at all.

Agreed. A guitar player too lazy to stand, you gotta be kidding me. And I have never noticed a great talent there. You could replace that idiot with a recording and do just as well. Hope you saved something fool.

I will certainly miss Kevin. Not only does he have great talent, but his personality tops it all. I wish Kevin the best for his future. Indeed its time to move on after 18 years. As for him going with Conan? Totally preposterous! There is no doubt in my mind that Kevin is off to bigger and better things :) WTG Kevin ...

Personality? Did someone say Kevin has a personality? Thats news in itself. He could hardly put 3 words together last night on the show. He might be a good musician, but he has a pesonality like a rock...and a mouth like a garbage can.